Diary of a Madman

Most of the story is told through diary entries from the narrative viewpoint of the “madman.” How does this make the events of the story more ambiguous? To what extent can the reader trust the “madman’s” writings?

A central theme of “Diary of a Madman” is the process of transcending unjust tendencies and “primal” behavior. Does the narrative show that such transcendence is possible? Can human beings truly change their nature? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

A recurring idea in “Diary of a Madman” is the role that children play in perpetuating social systems. How does Lu Xun demonstrate this practice, and how do you see it in your own society?